Texas Instruments MSP430FR6879IPZR
- Part No.:
- MSP430FR6879IPZR
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- Microcontrollers
- Package:
- 100-LQFP
- Datasheet:
-
MSP430FR6879IPZR.pdf
- Description:
- IC MCU 16BIT 128KB FRAM 100LQFP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
MSP430FR6879IPZR from Texas Instruments is a 16-bit ultra-low-power mixed-signal microcontroller featuring 128KB ferroelectric RAM (FRAM), 2KB SRAM, integrated 12-bit ADC with 16 external inputs, LCD driver supporting up to 320 segments, and dual eUSCI modules (UART/IrDA/SPI/I²C). It operates from 1.8 V to 3.6 V and targets battery-powered metering applications requiring long-term data retention and low active/standby current.
For engineers reviewing the MSP430FR6879IPZR datasheet, MSP430FR6879IPZR pinout, MSP430FR6879IPZR application, or MSP430FR6879IPZR equivalent, key selection criteria include FRAM endurance (10¹⁵ write cycles), RTC with calendar/alarm in LPM3.5 (0.35 µA), capacitive touch I/O on all ports without external components, and UART/I²C bootloader support.
Technical Context
The MSP430FR6879IPZR implements the MSP430 CPUXV2 core with 16 registers and integrates a flexible clock system including DCO (10 factory-trimmed frequencies), LFXT (32-kHz crystal), and HFXT. Its power architecture supports seven low-power modes, with LPM4.5 consuming only 0.02 µA typical - critical for multi-year battery life in utility meters.
Peripherals include three 16-bit Timer_A modules (TA0/TA1/TA3), two Timer_B modules (TB0/TB1), 32-bit hardware multiplier, three-channel DMA, CRC16/CRC32 engines, and an analog comparator with 16 channels. The device uses Spy-Bi-Wire for debug and supports both UART- and I²C-based BSL variants.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Core Architecture | 16-bit MSP430 CPUXV2, up to 16-MHz operation - enables deterministic real-time control with minimal code footprint |
| Nonvolatile Memory | 128KB FRAM - provides flash-like retention with SRAM-like write speed (125 ns/word) and 10¹⁵ endurance |
| Power Consumption (LPM3.5) | 0.35 µA typical - supports RTC + calendar operation with 32-kHz crystal for decade-scale timekeeping on coin cell |
| ADC Resolution & Inputs | 12-bit SAR ADC with internal reference, 16 external input channels - sufficient for multi-sensor metering (voltage, current, temperature) |
| LCD Driver Capacity | Up to 320 segments, static/2–8 mux - drives full-feature utility meter displays without external segment drivers |
| Capacitive Touch Support | All P1–P10 and PJ pins - enables button/slider interfaces in water/heat meters without external ICs or PCB layout constraints |
| Communication Interfaces | eUSCI_A0/A1 (UART/IrDA/SPI), eUSCI_B0/B1 (I²C/SPI) - supports AMR protocols, sensor interfacing, and firmware updates over multiple physical layers |
Pinout & Package
LQFP-100 package (14 mm × 14 mm), thermally enhanced with exposed pad; 100-pin square grid, 0.5-mm pitch; RoHS-compliant, lead-free finish.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| P1.0–P1.7 | General-purpose I/O with TA0/TA1, UCB0, LCD seg | Support timer capture, I²C slave, and display drive - enables compact meter front-end integration |
| P2.0–P2.7 | General-purpose I/O with UCA0, TB0, COMx, Sxx | Provide UART TX/RX, LCD backplane (COM0–COM7), and PWM outputs for display contrast control |
| P3.0–P3.7 | General-purpose I/O with UCA1/UCB1, TB0, Sxx | Enable secondary SPI/I²C bus and Timer_B CCR for auxiliary timing or sensor sync |
| P6.0–P6.7 | LCD voltage rails (R23/R13/LCDCAP), COM0–COM3, TA0CLK | Direct connection to LCD bias network - eliminates external charge pumps or resistor dividers |
| PJ.0–PJ.5 | JTAG/Spy-Bi-Wire debug, HFXIN/HFXOUT, LFXIN/LFXOUT | Support production programming and precise 32-kHz/4–24-MHz crystal oscillation for RTC and system clock |
| DVCC1/DVCC2/DVCC3/DVCC4 | Digital power supply (4 pins) | Reduces IR drop and noise coupling in high-density layouts - improves ADC accuracy and FRAM write reliability |
| AVCC1, AVSS1–AVSS3 | Analog power and ground | Isolates analog subsystem (ADC, comparator, LCD ref) from digital switching noise |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Ferroelectric RAM (128KB) | Enables instant nonvolatile logging at full CPU speed without wear leveling or erase delays - ideal for burst-mode data capture in heat/water meters |
| Capacitive Touch I/O (All Ports) | Eliminates need for external touch controllers or dedicated PCB layers - reduces BOM cost and design complexity in sealed meter enclosures |
| RTC with Calendar & Alarm (LPM3.5) | Provides accurate time-stamped event logging (e.g., tamper detection, flow intervals) while drawing <0.4 µA - extends 3.6-V lithium battery life beyond 10 years |
| Integrated LCD Driver (320 seg) | Drives multiplexed segment displays directly - avoids external LCD drivers and associated power loss, simplifying compliance with EN 13757-3 (M-Bus) |
| Hardware CRC32 Engine | Accelerates firmware integrity checks and secure communication packet validation - reduces CPU load during OTA updates or encrypted sensor data transmission |
| Three-Channel DMA | Automates ADC sampling → FRAM storage and LCD refresh → segment buffer transfers - frees CPU for metrology algorithms during low-power operation |
Applications
| Water Metering | Heat Cost Allocation |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Ultrasonic or mechanical flow measurement with hourly consumption logging and leak detection. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Main controller executing metrology algorithms, managing FRAM-based data history, driving LCD display, and communicating via M-Bus or RF. Use Value: 128KB FRAM stores >10 years of hourly readings; RTC alarm triggers wake-up for scheduled reads; low LPM3.5 current enables 15+ year battery life. |
Use Scenario: Apartment-level thermal energy distribution monitoring with temperature differential sensing and billing interval storage. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual-sensor acquisition hub with time-synchronized ADC sampling, calendar-aware data aggregation, and LCD-based user interface. Use Value: Integrated 12-bit ADC handles PT1000/NTC inputs; LCD_C drives custom segment display for tenant readouts; capacitive touch enables sealed keypad navigation. |
| Portable Medical Meters | Data Logging Systems |
Use Scenario: Battery-powered blood glucose or inhaler usage trackers requiring FDA-grade data integrity and timestamped event logs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure data acquisition node with tamper-evident logging, CRC-protected FRAM storage, and USB/I²C host interface. Use Value: 10¹⁵ FRAM write cycles ensure lifetime data reliability; hardware CRC32 validates every stored record; low active current extends single-charge operation. |
Use Scenario: Environmental sensor nodes (temperature/humidity/pressure) deployed in remote locations with infrequent retrieval. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Autonomous logger using LPM4.5 RTC wake-up, FRAM circular buffer, and UART/I²C peripheral expansion. Use Value: 0.02 µA shutdown mode preserves battery during months of dormancy; unified FRAM space simplifies firmware for variable-length log entries. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar ultra-low-power FRAM microcontroller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSP430FR6877IPZR | 64KB FRAM (vs. 128KB), identical peripherals, same LQFP-100 package | Suitable for simpler metering with smaller data history requirements | Select when firmware size and data logging depth fit within 64KB - reduces cost without sacrificing peripheral capability |
| MSP430FR6972IPZ | 128KB FRAM, but only 240-segment LCD driver and no integrated RTC calendar (only counter mode) | Better suited for display-centric devices without time-stamped logging | Choose if RTC calendar/alarm is not required and display needs are ≤240 segments - offers lower gate count and marginally lower active current |
Compared with MSP430FR6877IPZR and MSP430FR6972IPZ, the MSP430FR6879IPZR uniquely combines maximum FRAM capacity, full 320-segment LCD support, and calendar-mode RTC - making it the optimal choice for advanced utility meters requiring decade-long data retention and rich local UI.
Availability
MSP430FR6879IPZR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for water metering, heat cost allocation, and portable medical metering requiring stable component supply across multi-year production cycles and regulatory certification timelines.
Supply support for MSP430FR6879IPZR includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.
Manufacturer
Texas Instruments is a global semiconductor leader focused on analog and embedded processing technologies, serving industrial, automotive, and consumer markets with high-reliability, energy-efficient solutions.
The MSP430FR6879IPZR belongs to TI's ULP FRAM microcontroller portfolio, designed specifically for battery-operated metering and sensing applications where data integrity, ultra-low power, and long service life are mandatory.
FAQ
What is the maximum operating frequency of the MSP430FR6879IPZR?
The MSP430FR6879IPZR supports a maximum system clock frequency of 16 MHz using the internal DCO or external HFXT oscillator. This allows real-time execution of metrology algorithms and fast FRAM writes while maintaining ultra-low power consumption in active mode (≈100 µA/MHz).
Does the MSP430FR6879IPZR support hardware encryption?
No, the MSP430FR6879IPZR does not include AES or other hardware encryption accelerators. It relies on software-based cryptographic libraries for secure boot or communication. For hardware encryption, consider the MSP430FR5994 or later FRAM devices with integrated AES-128 modules.
How many I²C interfaces does the MSP430FR6879IPZR have?
The MSP430FR6879IPZR features two independent eUSCI_B modules (eUSCI_B0 and eUSCI_B1), each supporting I²C master/slave operation with multi-slave addressing. Both can operate concurrently, enabling connection to multiple sensors or EEPROMs without bus contention.
What is the purpose of the PJ.4 and PJ.5 pins on the MSP430FR6879IPZR?
PJ.4 (LFXIN) and PJ.5 (LFXOUT) are dedicated crystal oscillator terminals for connecting a 32.768-kHz tuning-fork crystal. They enable the low-frequency oscillator (LFXT) used by the real-time clock (RTC_C) module, allowing calendar/timekeeping functionality in LPM3.5 with 0.35 µA typical current draw.
Can the MSP430FR6879IPZR drive a 4-mux LCD directly?
Yes, the MSP430FR6879IPZR's LCD_C module supports static, 2-, 3-, 4-, 6-, and 8-mux configurations. In 4-mux mode, it can drive up to 320 segments (80 commons × 4 segments per common), meeting EN 13757-3 requirements for utility meter displays without external drivers.
MSP430FR6879IPZR Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Package/Case:
- 100-LQFP
- Series:
- MSP430™ FRAM
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Core Processor:
- MSP430 CPUXV2
- Core Size:
- 16-Bit
- Speed:
- 16MHz
- Connectivity:
- I2C, IrDA, SCI, SPI, UART/USART
- Peripherals:
- Brown-out Detect/Reset, DMA, LCD, POR, PWM, WDT
- Number of I/O:
- 83
- Program Memory Size:
- 128KB (128K x 8)
- Program Memory Type:
- FRAM
- EEPROM Size:
- -
- RAM Size:
- 2K x 8
- Voltage - Supply (Vcc/Vdd):
- 1.8V ~ 3.6V
- Data Converters:
- A/D 16x12b
- Oscillator Type:
- Internal
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
MSP430FR6879IPZR FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MSP430FR6879IPZR through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MSP430FR6879IPZR on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MSP430FR6879IPZR reliable?
The price and inventory of MSP430FR6879IPZR are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MSP430FR6879IPZR is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MSP430FR6879IPZR?
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MSP430FR6879IPZR orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MSP430FR6879IPZR order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MSP430FR6879IPZR?
For technical support, including MSP430FR6879IPZR datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MSP430FR6879IPZR requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MSP430FR6879IPZR is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MSP430FR6879IPZR products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MSP430FR6879IPZR meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MSP430FR6879IPZR?
All MSP430FR6879IPZR units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MSP430FR6879IPZR, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MSP430FR6879IPZR part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MSP430FR6879IPZR:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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